This post is for anyone left on a high after the Gladiator II release this weekend! I’ve rounded up some books that I feel fall into the same vein, bringing you the action and turmoil the Roman Empire was famous for. This post is split between my recommendations and a few that are on my want-to-read list, all titles are linked to Goodreads!
- The Thieves of Ostia by Caroline Lawrence – this is a middle grade series I was obsessed with when I was younger. Over the course of the series, it explores the politics and culture of the empire in a fun and accessible way.
- SPQR & Rubicon are for the history buffs who want to get an inside look into the more nitty-gritty parts of Ancient Rome.
- The Chosen isn’t strictly historical but its got the survivalist, high-stakes plot that made it a must for this list.
- Red Rising is set in a dystopian future but the vibes are on point for this theme. I was blown away by the intricate politics and warfare which brought to mind a lot of what I learned when reading about Roman history.
- Curses and Smoke is a YA historical fiction which I loved, set around the eruption of Vesuvius and this one also features gladiators!
- Amber & Clay is set in Ancient Greece but is honestly one of the best books I’ve ever read set in the Classical World, you will want to check it out after reading the others on this list.
- A Voice in the Wind is Christian fiction and gives a unique take on life in Ancient Rome from multiple povs. With a wide & intricate perspective on the different lifestyles available, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to go deeper.
↑↑Books from my to-be-read list ↑↑
Let me know if there are any others that should be added to this list! Happy Reading 🙂
The Art of Reading 